Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf 2020
Christoph Kühn's intimate documentary *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf (2020)* offers a rare glimpse into the life and mind of Swiss literary icon Paul Nizon, now in his nineties.
Director: Christoph Kühn
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf (2020)* about?
This documentary follows Swiss writer Paul Nizon as he reflects on his lifelong quest for authenticity, from his early days in Bern to his transformative years in Paris. Now 90, Nizon shares his philosophy on art, risk, and the blurred line between life and writing in a conversation that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Who directed *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf*?
The film was directed by Christoph Kühn, whose sensitive approach allows Nizon's charisma and contradictions to shine.
Who stars in *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf*?
The documentary features Swiss literary giant Paul Nizon as the central figure, with no other named cast members listed.
Is *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf (2020)* worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this film is a compelling watch for anyone interested in literature, biography, or character-driven documentaries. Its intimate tone and thought-provoking themes make it a rewarding experience, especially for fans of Nizon's work or European literary history.
How long is *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf*?
The runtime is 90 minutes.
About Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf (2020) — A Candid Portrait of Literary Defiance
Christoph Kühn's intimate documentary *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf (2020)* offers a rare glimpse into the life and mind of Swiss literary icon Paul Nizon, now in his nineties. This 90-minute portrait captures the legendary writer reflecting on his radical journey from Bern to Paris, where he forged an uncompromising path as a self-described outsider. With disarming self-irony and raw honesty, Nizon reveals how his existence and his writing became one continuous act of risk-taking—each sentence a leap into the unknown.
The film unfolds like a literary confessional, blending archival footage with candid conversations to paint a vivid picture of a man who turned personal chaos into art. Kühn's direction avoids hagiography, instead embracing the quirks and contradictions of Nizon's character, making this more than just a tribute—it's a living testament to a life lived in pursuit of truth, even at the cost of isolation. The result is a quietly electrifying meditation on what it means to remain true to oneself.
Available to stream or download on select platforms, *Paul Nizon: Der Nagel im Kopf* is a must-watch for fans of literature, documentary cinema, or anyone drawn to stories of defiance and self-discovery.